Members of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council have expressed their condolences in a main meeting to both the Chief Executive, Alison McCullagh, and Councillor Diana Armstrong, on the passing of their mothers.

The Chief Executive’s mother, Mrs. Ethne McCullagh, passed away on August  11,  and Councillor Armstrong’s mother, Mrs. Maureen West, passed away on August 21.

Ulster Unionist Councillor Victor Warrington expressed sincere sympathy to both his colleague and the Chief Executive “who are very much in our thoughts at this time”.

He continued: “You only ever have one mother, and she is not replaceable. I have been there myself. Our party extends deepest sympathies.”

Councillor Tommy Maguire, Sinn Fein, expressed deepest sympathy to both, as did Councillor Mark Buchanan on behalf of the Democratic Unionist Party, who also wished them strength for the days ahead.

The SDLP’s Councillor Mary Garrity extended condolences on behalf of her party, and added: “Losing a mother is a terrible experience to go through. It can be a very difficult and challenging time.

“Both [deceased] ladies were remarkable, and with the grace of God, the Chief Executive and Councillor Armstrong will get the strength to deal with this.”

Echoing this, Councillor Josephine Deehan, Independent, said: “The loss of a mother is a deeply-felt pain. It is the end of an era.”

Independent Councillor Eamon Keenan offered “sincere condolences at this sad time; I can only imagine the death of a mother is very tough”.

Responding, Councillor Armstrong thanked all in the Chamber, adding: “As a family, we have been greatly comforted by the messages of sympathy we have received, time spent with friends, and fellow councillors sharing memories of a much accomplished life.”

She also described Mrs. McCullagh as: “An exemplary and remarkable lady.”

The Chief Executive also thanked all in the Chamber, remarking: “From all we’ve heard in recent days of such tragic loss of young life, we also have to recognise when a life comes to a natural conclusion, we have to be thankful.

“I genuinely appreciate members’ comments, along with the support of colleagues.”